Historic Stone Town embarks on restoration project
In an unprecedented move to enhance one of Africa's most treasured historical sites, Zanzibar's Stone Town is undergoing a comprehensive renovation project that will see its entire UNESCO World Heritage district transformed through a meticulous repainting initiative.
According to Daily News, the multi-year project, launched in partnership with local property developers, will refresh more than 2,700 structures across the historic quarter, including its famous merchants' houses, boutique hotels, and traditional residences. The initiative represents one of the largest coordinated heritage preservation efforts in East Africa.
What makes this project particularly significant for tourism is its careful balance between modernisation and historical preservation. The renovation will employ specialised eco-friendly paints that meet UNESCO's strict heritage guidelines while brightening the district's weathered facades. This thoughtful approach ensures that Stone Town's unique character - marked by its distinctive blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European architectural influences - remains authentically preserved.
For visitors, the refreshed Stone Town will offer even more compelling photographic opportunities while exploring its famous narrow alleyways and discovering its architectural treasures, including the district's renowned carved wooden doors. The timing of this initiative follows the successful renovation of the historic Old Fort, creating a more cohesive and visually striking historical quarter for tourists to explore.
Source: Daily News